Apparently it is more frequent to receive files that contain an extension that cannot be seen, since it contains data or binary codes , instead of text like Word documents. This is the particular case of files with an IPSW extension, but in the same way it is necessary to have the appropriate program to open them. It is for this reason that we will tell you how I can open or edit an IPSW file – Quick and easy.
But before continuing, let’s clear up doubts and clarify that it is an IPSW extension file and this is nothing more than a file that contains updates for Apple brand devices. Be it iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch and Apple TV. And it is in a format that can store encrypted BBFWs, PLISTs, DMG files.
These files contain functions that allow you to correct vulnerabilities that have to do with security and privacy. It is launched from Apple and they are also often used to restore a device and keep the factory settings. In this sense, it is important that you know these files as important for your devices as those that help you keep your iPhone updated .
How can I open or edit an IPSW file.
Editing an IPSW (iPhone Software) file, which is essentially a firmware file for Apple’s iOS devices, can be complex and risky. Normally, these files are used to update or restore an Apple device through iTunes or Finder (on macOS Catalina and later). It’s crucial to note that tampering with IPSW files can render your device inoperable and may void your warranty. Here’s a basic guide presented in a tabular format for reference purposes:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Obtain the IPSW File | Download the IPSW file for your specific device model from a reliable source. Apple’s official website is recommended. |
| 2. Software Requirement | Get a software capable of editing IPSW files. Options include TransMac (for Windows) or a similar tool. Note: Such software is often not officially supported. |
| 3. Extracting Contents | Use the chosen software to extract the contents of the IPSW file. This step is risky as it may corrupt the file if not done properly. |
| 4. Modification | After extraction, you can modify specific files. However, this requires in-depth knowledge of iOS’s file structure and programming. |
| 5. Re-packaging | Once modifications are done, re-package the files back into an IPSW format. This step is crucial and must be done correctly to ensure the file is readable by Apple devices. |
| 6. Using the Modified IPSW | Use iTunes or Finder to restore your device with the modified IPSW file. Hold the ‘Shift’ key (Windows) or ‘Option’ key (macOS) and click ‘Restore iPhone/iPad’ to select your custom IPSW. |
| 7. Risk Awareness | Be aware that modifying and using a custom IPSW can lead to various issues including bricking your device, voiding the warranty, and potential security risks. |
Important Notes:
- Backup Data: Always backup your iOS device before attempting to use a modified IPSW file.
- Expertise Required: Modifying an IPSW file requires technical expertise and is not recommended for average users.
- Legal and Warranty Implications: Modifying firmware might be against Apple’s terms of service and will likely void your warranty.
- Risk of Bricking: There is a significant risk of permanently damaging (bricking) your device if the process is not done correctly.
This type of file is periodically released by the North American company through the iTunes platform. But if you want you can find the current and obsolete versions of the Firmware through the official website of Apple. Next we will tell you what you must do to open an IPSW file.
This can be done automatically, since if you have an Apple device that needs updating and you connect it to the computer. The IPSW file will be downloaded through iTunes , that is if it sent you a message first. Which you must accept to start the update and in this way the file will be applied to the device.
But if what you want is to open this file that you received by iTunes or it just came from a web page. To be able to open it, you just have to double click on the file and it will open with the iTunes application , this IPSW file can be opened that easy. If you have downloaded such a file and it is not recognized by iTunes, you can delete it.
What application can we use to open or edit an IPSW file
This way when you try to update the device again, iTunes will download the IPSW file again. It is important that you know that these files are saved as ZIP files, this means that if you use a file decompressor like 7 -ZIP you can open it. And so see the DMG files that are contained in the IPSW file.
It is also very important that before trying to open a file you look at its extension, since you can try to open the file with the wrong tool. There are many extensions that are usually similar but have no relation in their format. For example, if you confuse it with IPS or PSW files, one works for patching and the other in a Word Pocket file.
You may be insisted on converting this file into another format in order to open it, but we can tell you that there is no reason to perform this procedure. Because as we have already mentioned, this type of file contains Software updates. And therefore if you carry out this conversion procedure, its functionality will be lost .
But if you want to open it as an archive file, you can use the decompression and compression tool that we referred to in the previous part. And this will be more than enough to open the file. And in this way we have finished the article that showed you in a very simple way how I can open or edit an IPSW file – Easy and fast.
